11-hour domestic violence standoff ends in arrest

WCSO says argument between DeFuniak Springs man and grandson led to the display of weapons and the discharge of at least one shot.

Staff report

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS — A 65-year-old man was arrested early Friday morning after an almost 11-hour-long domestic violence dispute that reportedly involved gunfire at his home.

Walton County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Howard Edward Johnson’s residence at 10917 U.S. Highway 331 N. about 7:50 p.m. Thursday after a gun was reportedly fired during an argument.

Johnson and his grandson got into an argument that led to the display of weapons and the discharge of at least one shot into the air, according to a Sheriff’s Office press release.

Shortly afterward, Johnson locked himself and his wife inside the home, and the grandson left the area when deputies arrived, the release stated.

Hostage negotiators then tried to talk with Johnson, and the Sheriff’s Office SWAT team was called in. Officials said Johnson’s wife was released from the house at 4 a.m. Friday and that Johnson surrendered at 6:47 a.m.

Johnson is being held without bond in the Walton County Jail on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and domestic battery.